Evaluation of clinical disorders of acid-base balance.

An understanding of acid-base disturbances depends on the interpretation of changes in blood pH, P-co-2, and bicarbonate concentration and a comprehension of the physiologic mechanisms that control them. The physiologic relationships between Pco-2 and bicarbonate can be visualized by means of the balance nomogram and this visualization facilitates determination of any excess or deficit for both respiratory and metabolic factors.